Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight! This mouthwatering recipe combines al dente elbow macaroni with tender, honey-coated chicken, and a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights. With a hint of black pepper and a touch of smoked paprika, each bite is bursting with flavor. Serve garnished with fresh parsley for a delicious finish!

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 cups cooked chicken, diced

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced chicken, honey, black pepper, and smoked paprika, cooking until the chicken is warmed through and coated with the honey mixture, about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and then gradually stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to combine. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4